"Legally Play All Persona Games in 2025: Where to Go"

With the release of *Persona 5 Royal*, Atlus' *Persona* series has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the JRPG genre. *Persona 5*, in particular, has become so iconic that fans from around the world travel to Shibuya Station in Tokyo, seeking to capture the memorable scene of the Phantom Thieves overlooking the Shibuya Scramble. Although the station has undergone renovations, dedicated fans can still find the perfect angle for their shots.

The success of the *Persona* series, however, did not happen overnight. Originally a spin-off of Atlus' *Shin Megami Tensei* franchise, the first *Persona* game was released nearly three decades ago. Despite the numbering in the titles, there are actually six mainline *Persona* games, not counting the numerous spin-offs, remakes, and enhanced versions. It's worth noting that *Metaphor: ReFantazio* is not part of the *Persona* series.

Exploring the rich history of this 30-year-old JRPG series is a rewarding experience, though some games are more accessible than others. Below is a guide on where you can legally play all the mainline *Persona* games. Be prepared: you might need to dust off your PSP.

Revelations: Persona

*Revelations: Persona* hit the shelves in 1996 for the original PlayStation, with later releases on Microsoft Windows and PlayStation Portable. The story follows a group of heroes who gain their personas through a dramatic fortune-telling session. However, the game has not been re-released on modern hardware beyond the PlayStation Classic in 2018. To play it, you'll need a physical copy and a PS1, PlayStation Classic, or PSP. While there's hope for future remasters given Atlus' commitment to revisiting older titles, currently, there's no modern version available.

Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 2—Innocent Sin

Also known as *Persona 2: Innocent Sin*, this sequel was initially released in Japan for the PlayStation in 1999. It wasn't until 2011 that North American and European players could enjoy a localized version on the PSP, with availability also on the PlayStation Vita. Set in the fictional town of Sumaru, the game follows a group of high school students battling a villain named Joker, whose rumors can alter reality. Unfortunately, like its predecessor, *Innocent Sin* is not available on current-generation consoles.

Persona 2: Eternal Punishment

*Eternal Punishment* continues the story of *Innocent Sin*, taking place just months after the events of the first game. Released in 2000, it follows a new protagonist, a teenage reporter, still dealing with the "Joker Curse." This game saw a simultaneous North American release and later a PSP remake in 2011, which was also available on the PlayStation Network for PS3 owners in 2013. Despite its broader availability, *Eternal Punishment* has yet to be released on modern hardware, though fans remain hopeful for a combined remake of both *Innocent Sin* and *Eternal Punishment*.

Persona 3

*Persona 3* marked a significant milestone, stepping out from the *Shin Megami Tensei* shadow. Released in 2006 in Japan and 2007 in North America on the PlayStation 2, the game explores themes of death and time anomalies known as the "Dark Hour." The following year saw the release of *Persona 3 FES*, which added an epilogue and is playable on PS3.

Further remakes include *Persona 3 Portable*, initially for PSP and later for PS4, Windows, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, with physical releases in 2023. Many consider this version to be the definitive experience. The latest iteration, *Persona 3 Reload*, released in 2024, caters to fans of *Persona 5 Royal* and is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows, with physical versions for PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X.

Persona 4

*Persona 4* debuted in 2008 on the PlayStation 2, presenting a gripping murder mystery narrative where teens harness personas to solve a series of killings. The game quickly gained a devoted following.

An enhanced version, *Persona 4 Golden*, was released for the PlayStation Vita in 2012 and later made available across multiple platforms including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Physical versions are available for all platforms except PC.

Persona 5

While *Persona 4* captured hearts, *Persona 5* propelled the series to new heights, becoming a household name among gamers. Released simultaneously for PS3 and PS4 in Japan in 2016 and worldwide in 2017, it was followed by *Persona 5 Royal*, the definitive version, which arrived in North America in March 2020, offering a glimpse of Tokyo just as the world faced the COVID-19 lockdown.

*Persona 5* follows a protagonist, codenamed Joker, who, after being falsely accused of assault, moves to Tokyo and becomes entangled in the world of "palaces," manifestations of people's distorted desires. The Phantom Thieves and their "take your heart" calling cards are central to this iconic entry.

*Persona 5 Royal* is now accessible on a wide range of modern platforms including PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, with both physical and digital versions available on their respective online stores.